Tired of the same old weeknight dinners? Craving something comforting yet sophisticated? Then prepare yourself for a flavor explosion! This recipe masterfully combines the rich, savory depths of classic French onion soup with the hearty goodness of a Salisbury steak, creating a truly unforgettable meal. It's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights, and impressive enough for a dinner party. Get ready to elevate your homemade cooking game!
Ingredients:
For the Salisbury Steak:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the French Onion Soup Gravy:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional, can substitute with more broth)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (slurry)
Instructions:
Preparing the Salisbury Steak:
- In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in a tough steak.
- Shape the mixture into 4 patties, about 1 inch thick.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Making the French Onion Soup Gravy:
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and caramelized (about 15-20 minutes). This is key to the delicious flavor! Be patient; the longer you cook the onions, the better the gravy will taste.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, brown sugar, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook, stirring constantly, until the gravy thickens.
- Return the Salisbury steaks to the skillet, nestling them in the gravy. Simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this delicious French Onion Soup Salisbury Steak hot, over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or even a bed of creamy polenta. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a touch of brightness. This recipe offers a hearty and satisfying meal, perfect for a quick dinner or a special occasion.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Use a combination of beef and mushroom broth.
- Add some mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions for an added layer of umami.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the gravy for a touch of heat.
- Make it ahead: The Salisbury steaks can be made ahead of time and reheated. The gravy is best made fresh, but can be thickened slightly before reheating if needed.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 450-500 (depending on serving size and additions) Protein: Approximately 35-40g Fat: Approximately 25-30g Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This easy recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. It's a delicious dish the whole family will love, proving that homemade cooking can be both satisfying and simple. Enjoy!